WIGAN owner Dave Whelan says new Warriors coach Ian Millward does not need to worry about being sacked for swearing.

Millward's former club St Helens sensationally dismissed him following three alleged incidents of swearing but Wigan appear more lenient.

Whelan said: "Swearing is part and parcel of coaching whether it be rugby or football.

"I have the utmost respect for the Saints club and their fans but we believe that this is their loss and our gain.

"I hope they will see our move for Ian as an opportunity we just could not miss. He is one of the best coaches in the world with a record that is second to none."

Millward has signed a three-year deal with Wigan. He had agreed to put Swinton through their paces tonight but this gesture has been scrapped with him already preparing to revive Warriors' fortunes.

Millward says: "This is a tremendous challenge for me. Wigan have good structure, the junior development is good and I'm excited about the future.

"When Maurice Lindsay spoke to me about joining Wigan I told him I couldn't wait.

"My desire is to be successful and I wish Saints well but that's in the past and revenge is not part of my life. I've had a lot of text messages from the Saints players wishing me well and I'm really appreciative of their support - and yes, I will try to curtail my swearing but I won't alter my coaching style and I'm as determined as ever to be successful."

Millward is expected to possibly target Saints players when out of contract if he feels they can be of use to Wigan.

RL legend Eric Ashton, who also coached both Wigan and Saints, is backing Millward to maintain his outstanding record in Super League.

Eric says: "Ian is an excellent coach. Any coach will always say the most important people are the players and I know this is how Ian views the situation."